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Australia have been dealt a significant blow as in-form Queensland Reds centre Digby Ioane is set to miss the entire domestic Test campaign with a shoulder injury.

Ioane, who has been a revelation for the struggling Reds since his move from the wing to outside-centre, will undergo reconstructive surgery on his injured left shoulder in the coming days, ruling him out for up to six months.

"It's a real blow for Digby, who I'm sure would have walked into the Wallaby side this year on the back of his exceptional performances for the Reds at outside centre this season," Reds coach Phil Mooney said.

The 23-year-old, who was set to challenge skipper Stirling Mortlock for the number 13 jumper this season, first suffered the injury against the Lions last month but played on through the pain only to aggravate it against the Brumbies a fortnight later.

Mooney revealed the decision to have an operation was made after a specialist examined Ioane on Wednesday.

"The news also came as a shock to Digby. He's never faced such a long period on the sidelines before so he's getting his head around that reality," Mooney added.

Mooney said the decision to opt for surgery was made in consultation with Wallabies coach Robbie Deans.

"When I spoke to Robbie Deans about it, we agreed it would give Digby time to really get himself into the best possible shape to attack the 2010 season," he said.

PA Sport / Eurosport